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The GOT fans are then getting rid of their husky at shelters already bursting at the seams with homeless dogs.

Since the show premiered in 2011, animal rescue centres in the UK have reportedly seen a 700% increase in abandoned huskies.

Now actor Peter Dinklage, who plays Tyrion Lannister in the fantasy favourite, is teaming up with PETA US to remind fans dogs should only be acquired as family members which need to be looked after for a lifetime.

And he is urging those who are serious about expanding their family to adopt - never buy.

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"Please, to all of Game of Thrones' many wonderful fans, we understand that due to the direwolves' huge popularity, many folks are going out and buying huskies," Dinklage says.

"Not only does this hurt all the deserving homeless dogs waiting for a chance at a good home in shelters, but shelters are also reporting that many of these huskies are being abandoned – as often happens when dogs are bought on impulse, without understanding their needs.

"Please, please, if you're going to bring a dog into your family, make sure that you're prepared for such a tremendous responsibility and remember to always, always, adopt from a shelter."

The dogs are beautiful to look at (Image: EyeEm)

In the US, two breed-specific rescue groups in Northern California have seen their numbers double over the last two years.

PETA claims this is not the first time that a popular TV show or movie has led to an increased demand for the animals seen on screen.

Beverly Hills Chihuahua, Legally Blonde, 101 Dalmatians and Men in Black all caused massive spikes in sales of the featured dog breeds, and many of these dogs were later abandoned at shelters by their ill-prepared guardians.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats end up in animal shelters across the UK, and many have to be euthanised simply because there are not enough good homes for them.